Are you looking for a delicious and easy-to-make side dish or light lunch? Look no further! Tortellini salads are a great way to enjoy the flavors of Italy in a bowl. These pasta-based salads are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to more formal events. In this article, we’ll explore 18 different tortellini salad recipes that are not only easy to make but also packed with flavor.
From classic combinations like cheesy and creamy to lighter options featuring fresh herbs and vegetables, there’s something for everyone in this collection of recipes. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick lunch option or a host seeking a crowd-pleasing side dish, these tortellini salads are sure to hit the spot.
Cheesy Tortellini Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Add a twist to your typical pasta salad by incorporating the flavors of Italy! This creamy, cheesy dish is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or as a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cucumber slices
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup Italian dressing
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Pour Italian dressing over the top, followed by olive oil. Toss until everything is well coated.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss again to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Spinach and Tortellini Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
Fresh and flavorful, this spinach and tortellini salad is a perfect side dish for any occasion. The tangy lemon vinaigrette brings out the best in the tender pasta and nutritious greens.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the salad and toss gently.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Greek Tortellini Salad with Feta and Olives
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Greece with the convenience of a quick meal. In just a few minutes, you can have a delicious and healthy salad ready to go!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine olives, feta cheese, red onion, and parsley.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including cooking time for tortellini)
Refreshing Tomato Basil Tortellini Salad
This light and flavorful salad is perfect for a warm summer evening or as a refreshing side dish any time of the year. Fresh tomatoes, basil, and tortellini come together in harmony to create a delightful and easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, chopped basil, olive oil, and white wine vinegar.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Simple Pesto Tortellini Salad with Cherry Tomatoes
A refreshing twist on the classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of creamy pesto, cherry tomatoes, and tender tortellini for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/4 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, pesto, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
3. Toss gently to combine, ensuring all ingredients are well coated with pesto.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Tortellini Salad with Mozzarella
This elegant salad combines tender tortellini, creamy mozzarella, and a tangy balsamic glaze for a flavorful and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see note)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, mozzarella slices, and cooked tortellini.
3. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad, followed by olive oil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time for tortellini)
Note: To make balsamic glaze, simmer 1 cup of balsamic vinegar over low heat until reduced by half. Let cool before using.
Easy Mediterranean Tortellini Salad with Artichokes
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the convenience of store-bought tortellini and canned artichoke hearts. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, cherry tomatoes, olives, and red onion.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese over the top and drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Light and Creamy Avocado Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creaminess of avocado with the convenience of store-bought tortellini, making it a perfect option for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. The addition of cherry tomatoes and fresh basil adds natural sweetness and a pop of color to this delightful dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, and chopped basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl with the avocado mixture. Pour in the dressing and toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quick Roasted Red Pepper Tortellini Salad
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and vibrant salad, perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch. Roasting red peppers brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with the creamy tortellini and tangy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fresh tortellini
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss chopped red peppers with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered and charred.
4. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine roasted red peppers, cooked tortellini, crumbled goat cheese, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
7. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Easy Caprese Tortellini Salad with Fresh Basil
Simplify your salad game with this colorful and flavorful recipe, perfect for a light and refreshing lunch or dinner. This easy Caprese tortellini salad combines the classic Italian flavors of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil in a creamy and tangy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh mozzarella balls, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and chopped fresh basil.
3. Drizzle olive oil and white wine vinegar over the mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Lemon Garlic Tortellini Salad with Arugula
Brighten up your day with this refreshing salad featuring tender tortellini, zesty lemon, and savory garlic. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/4 cup shaved Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
3. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss until coated with the lemon-garlic dressing.
4. Add arugula leaves and toss gently to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with shaved Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Italian Tortellini Salad with Pepperoni
Elevate your salad game with this spicy twist on a classic tortellini salad! This recipe combines the flavors of Italy with a kick of heat, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cheese-filled tortellini
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup pepperoni slices
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and hot sauce.
3. Add cooked tortellini, cherry tomatoes, pepperoni slices, parsley, and feta cheese (if using) to the bowl.
4. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Tortellini Salad
Easy Sun-Dried Tomato Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and tender tortellini for a light and satisfying meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 package cheese-filled tortellini
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces mozzarella cheese, sliced
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sun-dried tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, olive oil, and white wine vinegar.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss to combine.
4. Top with sliced mozzarella cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Quick Bacon Ranch Tortellini Salad
A delicious and easy-to-make salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of crispy bacon, creamy ranch dressing, and tender tortellini with fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup of cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp. ranch dressing
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked tortellini, crumbled bacon, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and parsley.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing and a pinch of salt and pepper. Pour over the salad and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Simple Veggie-Packed Tortellini Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta salads, this recipe combines tender tortellini with a vibrant mix of vegetables and a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
3. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese over the top and drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– 8-10 minutes for cooking tortellini
– 5-7 minutes for preparing vegetables and assembling salad
Easy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Salad
Easy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini Salad
A delicious and easy-to-make pasta salad perfect for any occasion! This recipe combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and tortellini to create a tasty and satisfying side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Add the cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss to combine with the garlic-parmesan mixture.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and dried basil to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Light Cucumber and Tortellini Salad with Dill
This Light Cucumber and Tortellini Salad with Dill is a perfect summer treat that combines the freshness of cucumbers, the creaminess of cheese-filled tortellini, and the brightness of dill. It’s an easy and quick salad to prepare, making it ideal for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. cheese-filled tortellini
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced cucumbers and chopped dill.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the cucumber mixture, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked tortellini to the salad and toss gently to combine.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Quick Zesty Italian Tortellini Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of Italy with a tangy kick, making it perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. tortellini (cheese-filled)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 1 tsp. Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, white wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked tortellini to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Discover 18 mouthwatering tortellini salad recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor. From classic combinations like cheesy pasta and spinach, to international twists like Greek and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating a delicious tortellini salad that’s perfect for any occasion.
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